JP2017513149A - Biometric sensor for touch-enabled devices - Google Patents

Abstract

One or more techniques and / or systems have been disclosed for biometric imaging devices. The imaging device is incorporated into a touch enabled computing device and used to interact with the device. Upon touching the touch-enabled surface of the device, an image of at least a portion of the touch object is captured and used in connection with user identification and / or for input to the device. The system or technique described herein can be incorporated into a portion of the surface of such a device to generate data indicating a light emitting layer that emits photons upon touch and an image of at least a portion of the touch object. And an image capture component. [Selection] Figure 1

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to US Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 977,958, “Biometric Sensors for Touch-Enabled Devices,” filed April 10, 2014. The entire contents of that application are inserted here.

  Biometric scanning devices (eg, relief image capture devices of body parts) are used for general security-related practices and are readily available to product manufacturers and consumers who want to protect information, systems, etc. It has become. Typically, a biometric scanning device captures a biometric image using several types of image capture devices. Therefore, a part of the biological object in question is simply represented by the completed image. As an example, the resulting captured print image can be used for security and / or identification purposes, for example, to access a secure system and / or to identify a person associated with a biometric object. used.

  Touch enabled devices include portable smart devices, tablet devices, computer monitors, portable computer device displays, smart monitors, televisions, and other displays capable of touch use as input methods. As an example, a smartphone (eg, another touch-enabled display) includes a touch-enabled screen for input and general device operation functions. This screen is used to interact with the screen objects displayed on the device. As another example, a smartphone (eg, or other touch-enabled device) also includes one or more mechanical actuators (eg, buttons). The actuator operates, for example, to enable device function when the display is not active.

  This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form. The concept is further explained in the detailed description below. This summary is not intended to identify essential features or key factors of the claimed invention, but is intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed invention. Not a thing.

  As shown below, a system or one or more techniques are devised. The technology provides a biometric imager that is integrated into touch-enabled computing devices. Touch is used to interact with the device. For example, touching a touch-enabled surface of the device captures an image of at least a portion of a touch object (eg, a biometric object). In one aspect, the systems or techniques described herein are incorporated into a portion of the surface of such a device (eg, a home button area), used for security and / or identification purposes, and / or devices Used for input to or for interaction with the device.

  In one embodiment, a biometric sensor system includes a luminescent layer. The light emitting layer is disposed on a part of the touch screen layer of the touch-enabled device. In this embodiment, the light emitting layer is configured to emit photons toward the touch screen layer upon contact from a biometric object. The biometric sensor system also includes an image capture component. It is part of the touch screen layer and is located directly under the light emitting layer. In this embodiment, the image capture component is configured to convert at least some of the emitted photons into data. The data represents an image that includes a representation of at least a portion of the biometric object.

  To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, the following description and the annexed drawings set forth certain illustrative aspects and embodiments. These illustrate several examples of the various methods that use one or more aspects. Other aspects, advantages and novel features of the disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

  What is described herein is shown in the accompanying drawings, which take a physical form in certain parts and component arrangements and form part of this specification and are described in detail herein.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary input device.

FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. FIG. 2B is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein.

FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. FIG. 3B is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein.

FIG. 7A is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. FIG. 7B is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein.

FIG. 8A is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. FIG. 8B is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. FIG. 8C is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. FIG. 8D is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein.

FIG. 9A is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. FIG. 9B is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. FIG. 9C is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method for manufacturing a biometric sensor system.

FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method of using a biometric sensor.

FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary computer environment in which one or more of the conditions described herein are implemented.

  The contents described in the claims will be described below with reference to the drawings. The same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference like elements. In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the claims. It may be evident, however, that the subject matter claimed may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate describing the content of the claims.

  As shown below, a system or one or more technologies are devised. The technology provides a biometric imager incorporated in touch-enabled computing devices and / or information appliances. As the device and / or consumer electronics, for example, interacting with and / or touching a touch-sensitive surface, such as a computer, laptop computer, smart device, mobile phone, tablet device, or receiving that surface Some other equipment that can do this. As an example, photons emitted from the light emitting layer are detected by an associated image sensor and converted into a corresponding electrical signal. In this example, the electrical signal indicates one or more biometric markers from the applied biometric object (eg, by a finger) to the surface of the touch-sensitive surface. The signal is also processed to produce an image representing one or more biometric markers of the biometric object. In one aspect, the systems or techniques described herein are incorporated into the surface of a touch-enabled device and used to associate the user of the device with the desired data (eg, for security purposes, recording or other identification purposes) For). In another aspect, the signals / data produced by the image sensor component are used to provide input to the device and / or interact with the device.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary biometric imaging device 100. The exemplary biometric imaging device 100 includes a light emitting layer 102. The light emitting layer 102 is configured to emit one or more photons 152 in a first direction from a portion of the light emitting layer 102 that has received contact from the biometric object 150. As an example, the user touches the surface of the light emitting layer 102 with the finger 150. In this example, the light emitting layer 102 simply emits photons at the touch location.

  In one embodiment, the emissive layer 102 includes an electroluminescent material that can convert a charge into photons 152. In this embodiment, for example, a human natural potential difference (eg, provided by a membrane potential) provides a charge of 10-200 volts to the light emitting layer 102. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the charge provided to the light emitting layer 102 is converted to photons 152 by, for example, an electroluminescent material disposed in the light emitting layer 102.

  In another embodiment, the emissive layer 102 includes a piezominescent material that can convert the pressure applied to the emissive layer 102 into photons 152. In this embodiment, for example, when a force (eg, provided by a user's finger) applies pressure to the piezominescent material, a recombination process involving electrons, holes and ion centers provides luminescence. can do. Also in this embodiment, for example, the pressure applied to the light emitting layer 102 is converted into photons 152 from the resulting light emission provided by the piezominescent material disposed in the light emitting layer 102.

  As an illustrative example, FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. In one embodiment, the emissive layer 102 includes an electroluminescent material 258 (eg, fluorescent particles such as a phosphor-based material. The phosphor-based material includes a phosphor-based inorganic crystal having a transition metal as a dopant or activator. Material, zinc sulfide-based material, cadmium sulfide-based material, gallium-based material, etc.) and a binder material. In one embodiment, when a biometric object 250 (eg, a finger or other body part) contacts the light emitting layer 102 and provides a charge 254, the electroluminescent material 258 is simply touched (when subjected to the charge 254). In position, it is converted to “activated” particles 256. Further, in this embodiment, “activated” particles 256 emit, for example, photons 252. Thereby, when a charge 254 is applied, light is generated.

  As an example, a natural human potential difference (eg, provided by a membrane potential) can provide a charge 254 of 10-200 volts on the contact surface (eg, top layer) of the emissive layer 102. Further, in this embodiment, charge 254 is provided to the light emitting layer 102 when the biometric object 250 contacts the contact surface of the light emitting layer 102. The charge 254 is converted into photons 252 by activating the luminescent particles 258. Thereby, for example, towards an image sensing component (eg, 104), it becomes “activated” luminescent particles 256 and generates photons 252.

  In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2A, the emissive layer 102 may include a piezoelectric luminescent material 258 (eg, a piezoelectric crystal (eg, sodium chloride, potassium bromide, potassium chloride, lithium fluoride, etc.) or some type of Iron-based polymer). In one embodiment, when the biometric object 250 is in contact with the light emitting layer 102 and imparts a pressing force, the piezominence material 258 (when subjected to the pressing force 254) simply “activates” the material at the position of contact and pressure. 256. Further, in this embodiment, the “activation” material 256 emits photons 252, for example. Thereby, when a pressing force 254 is applied, light is generated.

  As an example, when an electroluminescent particle is charged, spontaneous emission of photons occurs due to radiative recombination of electrons and holes. This process results in the emission of photons when a light source such as a fluorescent molecule in an excited state (eg, charged) transitions to a lower energy state. As another example, when the piezominescent material is under pressure, spontaneous emission of photons also occurs due to the recombination process of electrons and holes. In this example, when these materials are in an excited state (eg, under pressure), they transition to a lower energy state and emit photons.

  With reference to FIG. 1, an exemplary biometric imaging device 100 includes an image capture component 104. Image capture component 104 is operatively associated with light emitting layer 102. As a result, the image capture component 104 is placed in a path in the direction of the emitted photons 152. The image capture component 104 is also configured to convert the received photons 152 into electrical signals. That is, for example, the image capture component 104 includes a photosensitive material. The material provides an electrical signal that is produced when one or more photons 152 strike the material. Thus, for example, the location and / or number of photons impinging on the image capture component 104 are indicated by the number of electrical signals (eg, or power) from the area of the image capture component 104 that has been impacted by the photons 152. It is. In one embodiment, the resulting electrical signal includes data indicative of a display (eg, an image) of the contact area of the biometric object.

  In one embodiment, the image capture component 104 is an active pixel sensor (APS) or passive pixel, such as a thin film sensor (eg, a photosensitive thin film transistor (TFT), thin film photodiode) or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS). Includes a sensor (PPS). As another example, the sensor arrangement 104 includes a charge coupled device (CCD), a contact image sensor (CIS), or some other photosensor that can convert photons into electrical signals. It should be noted that the diagram of FIG. 1 is merely an exemplary embodiment of a biometric imaging device 100 and is not intended to be particularly limited. That is, for example, the gap shown between the emissive layer 102 and the image capture component 104 is exaggerated for purposes of illustration and may or may not be present in the exemplary biometric imaging device 100. Good.

  As an illustrative example, FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein, for example. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3A, the emissive layer 102 is disposed on the image capture component 104. This image capture component 104 is used to convert incident photons 352 into an electronic signal. In one implementation, the image capture component 104 includes a thin film sensor array. For example, a thin film sensor array is used to detect photons 352 emitted by the light emitting layer 102. Here, as an example, the image capture component 104 can detect photons 352 produced by the emissive layer 102 (eg, produced from a biometric object in contact with the surface of the emissive layer 102), and the photons 352 can be detected. It can be converted into an electrical signal.

  In this exemplary embodiment, photosensitive material 302 (eg, SiH, amorphous silicon includes a semiconductor material such as a germanium-based material, an indium gallium-based material, a lead-based material) is the first of the light sensing unit 308. Formed between the drain electrode 306 and the first source electrode 304. When charge is applied to the first gate electrode 310, the photosensitive layer 302 can respond to light. For example, the photosensitive layer 302 becomes a conductive layer when light photons are incident. As an example, when light exceeds a predetermined threshold light amount and enters the photosensitive layer 302, the first source electrode 304 and the first drain electrode 306 are electrically connected. Accordingly, in this example, light (eg, including a fingerprint pattern) generated from the light emitting layer 102 is received by the photosensitive layer 302. It produces an electrical signal that passes from the first source electrode 304 to the first drain electrode 306 (eg, provides an electronic signal indicative of received light).

  In one embodiment, the switching portion 312 of the image capture component 104 includes a second source electrode 314, a second drain electrode 316, and a unique semiconductor layer 318. As an example, when a negative charge is applied to the second gate electrode 320, the intrinsic semiconductor layer 318 becomes conductive so that the electrical signal produced by the light sensing unit 308 is transmitted from the second source electrode. It can be passed to a second drain electrode (eg, to an electrical signal readout component for converting to a digital image). Thus, for example, the switching unit 312 may be configured such that an electrical signal indicative of a particular amount of light (eg, to mitigate signals that interfere with neighboring optical sensing units for processing purposes, signal location purposes, and / or). Used for control when sent to an electrical signal readout component.

  Further, in one embodiment, a shielding layer 322 is on top of the switching unit 312. As an example, since light affects the electrical conductivity of the intrinsic semiconductor layer 318, the shielding layer 322 reduces light intrusion into the intrinsic semiconductor layer 318. Image capture component 104 includes a substrate 354 of any suitable material. On top of that, a layer of the image capture component 104 is formed. As an example, when a biometric object 350 (eg, a finger or the like) contacts a contact surface (eg, top surface, top coat, protective layer) of the light emitting layer 102, the charge (eg, and / or pressing force) is reduced to the light emitting layer 102. to go into. In this example, the light emitting layer 102 emits photons 352 incident on the photosensitive layer 302. Thereby, an electrical signal (eg, an indication of the number of received photons and / or the location of the received photons) can pass from the first source electrode 304 to the second drain electrode 316.

  In one aspect, the exemplary biometric imaging device 100 is used to generate a biometric object relief pattern. As an example, the exemplary biometric imaging device 100 may include one or more disposed on the surface of the emissive layer 102, eg, for security purposes, user authentication, biometric data logging, biometric data comparison and search, and the like. Used to capture fingerprints (eg, or other biometric objects) of a user's finger. In one embodiment, this aspect requires a large definition of fine details of the biometric object to generate a suitable biometric object relief pattern (eg, fingerprint) (eg, for touch location detection). Larger). In this embodiment, the supplemental charge is used to increase the number of photons produced by the light emitting layer 102. For example, an increase in photons provides improved contrast due to fine details in the resulting image and improved resolution of details.

  As an illustrative example, FIG. 2B is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2B, the light emitting layer 102 includes an electrode system (eg, a single electrode) electroluminescent component. Further, in this embodiment, the light emitting layer 102 includes a power supply 218 (eg, a power source such as an AC power source). The power supply 218 provides an electrical connection between the biometric object 250 and the light emitting layer 102. In one embodiment, the light-emitting layer 102 also includes a transparent electrode layer 216 (eg, comprising an indium tin oxide (ITO) material) (eg, or another optically transparent conductor), an electroluminescent layer 214, And / or include a dielectric layer 212 (eg, a conductive / insulating layer in which a potential or electric field can be built across the light emitting layer 102). In this embodiment, for example, when the exemplary biometric imaging device 100 is activated (eg, by placing a finger on the surface of the device), the photons 252 produced by the emissive layer 102 are transmitted to the image capture component 104. Released in a first direction to be directed toward.

  In FIG. 2B, the light emitting device 102 includes an electroluminescent layer 214 composed of, for example, an electroluminescent material 258 and a binder material. In one embodiment, electroluminescent material 258 includes “activated” particles 256, for example, when subjected to an electric field 262. Also in this embodiment, for example, “activated” particles 256 emit photons 252. Thereby, light is produced when the current 262 is applied. Also, in the exemplary embodiment, dielectric layer 212 is in contact with and on top of electroluminescent layer 214. The transparent electrode 216 (eg, receiving electrode) then contacts the electroluminescent layer 214 and is below the bottom of the electroluminescent layer 214. Further, the power source 218 (eg, alternating current (AC) power source) exists substantially adjacent to the electrode connection 222 in electrical connection with the transparent electrode 216 and the contact surface (eg, top surface) of the dielectric layer 212. A contact electrode 220 (eg, a biometric object contact electrode) that is electrically coupled.

  In one embodiment, biometric object 250 contacts both the contact surface of dielectric layer 212 and contact electrode 220. In this embodiment, for example, when an object contacts both the dielectric layer 212 and the contact electrode 220, an electrical circuit is created between the contact electrode 220 and the transparent electrode 216. Thereby, a voltage potential 262 can flow between the two electrodes. Further, in this embodiment, the portion of biometric object 250 that contacts the contact surface of dielectric material layer 212 (eg, a relief ridge of the body part) allows for a potential difference between contact electrode 220 and transparent electrode 216. To do. In addition, the electric field 262 can simply “activate” the electroluminescent particles 256 at the location of the touch. When “activated”, activated particles 256 simply emit photons 252 at the point of contact of a portion of biometric object 250 (eg, a fingerprint ridge). Thus, for example, when the biometric object 250 is in contact with both the contact electrode 220 and the contact surface of the dielectric layer 212, a brightened relief pattern (eg, fingerprint) of the biometric object 250 (eg, finger) is created. To manufacture.

  As another illustrative example, FIG. 3B is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. In the exemplary embodiment, light emitting layer 102 is combined with exemplary image capture component 104. This is disposed on an exemplary substrate layer 354. Also, in some embodiments of exemplary device 100, light emitting layer 102 is electrically coupled to power source 334. The power source 334 is electrically coupled to the ground electrode 332. In this embodiment, as an example, when a biometric object (eg, a finger) contacts the ground electrode 332 and the light emitting layer 102 (eg, the dielectric layer 212 of FIG. 2B), current flows from the power source 334 to the ground electrode 332. And flows to the light emitting layer 102 via the biometric object 350. Resulting photons 352 emitted by the emissive layer 102 (eg, by the electroluminescent layer 214 of FIG. 2B) impinge on the photosensitive layer 302 of the image capture component 104. This leads to the output of one or more electrical signals indicating the relief pattern of the biometric object 350.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. In this embodiment, mobile device 400 (smartphone or some other portable data device) includes a “cover glass” 402. “Cover glass” is simply used as a general term to denote an optically clear cover. Such covers can be found on mobile devices, smartphones, tablets, laptops, monitors, and other computer screens. Cover glass 402 does not limit a “cover glass” component to a component that includes actual glass. That is, a “cover glass” includes one or more layers of various components. Such components include, but are not limited to, glass, polymers, polyesters, films, electrode layers, shields, ceramics, coatings, polarizing layers, and the like. In this and other embodiments described herein, the term “cover glass” refers to any or all of these components, alone or in combination, and may not include actual glass.

  In one implementation, the top layer of cover glass 402 includes a protective coating 404, as shown in FIG. The protective coating is configured to protect the surface of the cover glass from, for example, dirt, liquids, ultraviolet light, scratches, and impacts. Further, in some implementations, the cover glass 402 includes an adhesive layer 406. The adhesive layer 406 is configured to adhere a protective coating to the upper surface of the cover glass 402. In this embodiment, the cover glass 402 includes a first conductive film 408. As an example, the first conductive film 408 includes an optically transparent electrode type material formed from an inorganic or organic material. As an example, an inorganic material (eg, indium tin oxide (ITO), fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) and / or doped zinc oxide) is used to create the first conductive film 408. Alternatively, the optically transparent electrode type material may include organic materials (eg, graphene, carbon nanotubes, and / or polymers). This is used to make the first conductive film 408.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the cover glass 402 may be treated glass and / or tempered glass (eg, treated with an alkali salt) made of various materials (eg, aluminosilicate and other materials), for example. A glass layer 410 (e.g., tempered or the like) or a polymer layer or a polyester layer. Further, in some embodiments, the cover glass 402 includes a second conductive film 412 that is similar to the first conductive film 408. As an example, the two conductive films 408, 412 sandwiching the glass layer 410 allow the cover glass to be a capacitive touch screen. The user simply touches the cover glass to interact with events on the screen and / or to enter data.

  In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4, cover glass 402 is disposed on a display screen 450 including, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD). Display screen 450 provides a visual output of a user interface (UI) for device 400. It includes, for example, buttons on the screen, input widgets, and visual content displayed to the user. In this embodiment, the cover glass 402 includes a touch-compatible screen protective cover for the display screen 450. The cover protects the display screen 450 from liquids, dirt, and physical damage while providing the primary input tool for the device 400.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. As an example, the electroluminescent film component 500 includes one or more layers and is used to generate photons at the location of a biometric object touch on the surface of the component 500. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 5, electroluminescent film component 500 includes a transparent insulating substrate layer 502. As an example, the substrate layer 502 includes any suitable material (eg, glass, polymer, polyester, etc.). The appropriate material is configured as a substrate on which other layers (including optically transparent materials) are formed. The substrate includes an optically transparent material.

  The electroluminescent film component 500 also includes a bottom electrode 504 that includes any suitable transparent conductive film (eg, 408, 412 in FIG. 4). In addition, the reinforcing layer 506 is disposed on the lower electrode layer 504. As an example, the reinforcing layer is made of any appropriate material. The material is configured to provide some rigidity and reinforcement between the light emitting layer 508 and the lower electrode 504. The light emitting layer 508 (eg, 102 in FIGS. 1-3) is configured to convert charge into photons that indicate the position and strength of the electric field, as described above. That is, for example, the user's finger provides a charge to the light emitting layer 508. It can convert the luminescent particles of layer 508 into activated particles. Thereby, one or more photons are emitted in response to the charge.

  As shown in FIG. 5, by way of example, the electroluminescent component 500 includes a shield layer 510 disposed on top of the light emitting layer 508. The shield layer 510 is made of any appropriate material. The material is configured to reduce photon emission from the top surface of the light emitting layer, for example, by providing a light blocking capability. The shield layer 510 is appropriately disposed and resides on the light emitting layer 508. Thus, for example, photons emitted by the light emitting layer 508 are simply directed toward the bottom of the electroluminescent component 500 (eg, toward the image sensor). The dielectric layer 512 is disposed on top of the shield layer 510, as described above, and is configured to pass current and provide insulation when appropriate (eg, 212 in FIG. 2B). In addition, the protective layer 514 is disposed on the dielectric layer 512. The protective layer is configured to reduce physical damage to the surface of the electroluminescent component 500 and protect it from liquids.

  As an illustrative example, exemplary electroluminescent component 500 includes a contact light emitting device comprised of one or more exemplary layers 502-514. In this example, when an electric field is formed between an object to be imaged (a biometric object (eg, one or more fingers or hands)) and the bottom electrode layer 504, the emissive layer 508 is a biometric object. Emit photons representing at least a portion of the image.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. In FIG. 6, an exemplary emissive layer 602 (eg, 102 in FIGS. 1, 2A, 2B, or layers 508-512 in FIG. 5) is a first conductive film in a cover glass (eg, 402 in FIG. 4). Located on layer 606 (eg, 408 in FIG. 4). Also in this illustrative example, the first conductive film layer 606 is a cover glass substrate layer 608 (eg, 410 of FIG. 4) used for the output screen (eg, 400 of FIG. 4) of the touch-enabled device. ). Further, a protective coating layer 604 (eg, 404 in FIG. 4) is disposed on a portion of the first conductive film layer 606 and the light emitting layer 602. In one embodiment, the combination 610 of layers 602-608 includes at least a portion of a cover glass for an exemplary touch enabled device screen.

  As an illustrative example, FIG. 7A is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. In this embodiment, the light emitting layer 602 is disposed on a portion of the cover glass 710 of the touch-enabled device. Further, the protective layer 604 is disposed on the light emitting layer 602 and the cover glass layer 710. Thus, for example, the light emitting layer 602 is effectively disposed on a desired portion of the cover glass 710, and the entire cover glass 710 is covered with the protective layer 604. Thus, for example, when the biometric object contacts the portion of the cover glass 710 where the light emitting layer 602 is disposed, light representing the image of the biometric object is directed from the light emitting layer 602 toward the cover glass 710.

  In one embodiment, the image sensing component 704 is located at the light emitting layer 602 below the cover glass 710. As a result, for example, light emitted from the light emitting layer collides with the imaging component 704. For example, the imaging component includes any suitable component (eg, 104 in FIGS. 1, 3A, and 3B) as described above. In one embodiment, the imaging component 704 utilizes an optical component 702 (eg, a lens). The component is configured, for example, to focus photons emitted from the light emitting layer 602 to a desired configuration. As an example, if the emitted light converges to the proper placement before impacting the surface of the imaging component 704, the imaging component 704 may have more desirable results (eg, improved image quality such as focus, granularity, contrast, etc.). )I will provide a.

  As another illustrative example, FIG. 7B is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. In this embodiment, the light emitting layer 602 is disposed over the imaging component layer 720 (eg, the image capture component 104 of FIGS. 1, 3A, and 3B). In one embodiment, the emissive layer is disposed on a thin film transistor (eg, FIGS. 3A and 3B), or similar thin film image sensor. The combination of the light emitting layer 602 and the thin film image sensor 720 is disposed on a part of the cover glass 710 of the touch-compatible device. Further, in this embodiment, the thin film image sensor 720 is connected to a touch-enabled device or communicatively connected (eg, using a data communication connection 722) to a processing component (eg, a computer processor) located on the touch-enabled device. The Thus, for example, representative data of an image of a biometric object is transmitted to a data processor and / or image processor for desired processing (eg, comparison, recording, storage, etc.).

  In the embodiment of FIG. 7B, the protective layer 604 is formed on the light emitting layer 602 and the cover glass layer 710. Thereby, for example, the combination of the light emitting layer 602 and the thin film image sensor 720 is effectively disposed in a desired portion of the cover glass 710. The entire cover glass 710 is covered with a protective layer 604. Thus, for example, when the portion of the cover glass 710 where the combination of the light emitting layer 602 and the thin film image sensor 720 is disposed is contacted by the biometric object, the light indicative of the image of the biometric object is transmitted from the light emitting layer 602 to the thin film image. Directed to sensor 720. The light is converted into an electrical signal that represents data representing an image of at least a portion of the biometric object.

  As an illustrative example, FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary embodiment of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. With continued reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a device 800, 810, 820, 830 that utilizes a touch-enabled surface for receiving user input. For example, smart devices, tablets, monitors, laptops and other displays utilize cover glasses and other systems that allow the user to interact with the device by touching the screen. In these embodiments, each device 800, 810, 820, 830 includes a type of home button 802, 812, 822, 832 (eg, or region).

  For example, smart devices and tablets typically include a home button that activates the device, places it in a home state, or performs other actions. In one embodiment, the emissive layer 602 (eg, or a combination of the emissive layer 602 and the thin film image sensor 720) is positioned at the home button or region 802, 812, 822, 832, under the protective layer 604, and the cover glass. 710 (eg, sandwiched between the protective layer and the cover glass). Further, in one embodiment, the imaging component 704 is disposed, for example, under a home button or region 802, 812, 822, 832 to receive light emitted by the light emitting layer 602 when contacted by a biometric object. It is configured.

  In one embodiment, the data generated by the imaging component 704, or the thin film image sensor 720 (eg, data in the form of electrical signals generated by the collision of photons on the image sensor) is stored in the home button or region 802, 812, Used to generate an image of the object touching the device surface at the positions 822 and 832. For example, touch objects include biometric objects (eg, fingerprints) and biometric images are used for user identification related purposes (eg, for security, etc.). In another embodiment, data generated by the imaging component 704 or the thin film image sensor 720 is used as an input event. For example, when the surface device is touched at the location of the home button or area 802, 812, 822, 832, the generated data selects the function associated with the touch location (eg, home button) (eg, operation )). That is, for example, instead of a mechanical button, data generated by touch can indicate a press or selection of the home button. In another embodiment, the biometric image data generated by the image sensor is compared to user stored biometric data (eg, locally and / or remotely). Then, if the threshold criterion is satisfied by the comparison, the function associated with the touch position is started. Otherwise nothing can start the action.

  9A, 9B and 9C are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary environment in which one or more portions of one or more systems described herein may be implemented. With continued reference to FIGS. 6-8, in one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9A, an exemplary device includes a portable computing device 900, such as a laptop computer. In this example, a combination (combined body) of the light emitting layer 602, the cover glass 710, and the imaging component 704 is disposed at a position used for the input operation 910 of the monitor 902. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9B, exemplary devices include another portable computing device 908, such as a smart device, tablet, mobile phone, smart display, portable console, and the like. In this example, the combination of the light emitting layer 602, the cover glass 710, and the imaging component 704 is arranged at a position used for the input operation 913 on the display screen 912. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9C, an exemplary device includes another portable computing device 920, such as a smart device, tablet, mobile phone, smart display, portable console, and the like. In this example, the combination of the light emitting layer 602, the cover glass 710, and the imaging component 704 is arranged at a position used for the input operations 916 and 914 on the display screen 922.

  Thus, for example, when the user of device 800, 810, 820, 830 touches home button region 802, 812, 822, 832 (eg, with a finger), an electric field can be present in light emitting layer 602. This electric field results in photons representing the touch (eg, fingerprints) that are emitted toward the imaging component 704 through the cover glass 710 (eg, and the optical component 702). Also, in this example, the imaging component 704 is configured to convert the received photons into an electrical signal indicative of a touch image, as described above. In addition, the electrical signal includes representative data of an image of an object that contacts the surface of the home button area 802, 812, 822, 832.

  With reference to FIGS. 8A-8D and FIGS. 9A-9C, in one embodiment, the light-emitting layer 602 and the imaging component 704 (eg, or a combination of the light-emitting layer 602 and the thin film image sensor 720) are touch-sensitive screen features of the device. Is positioned in / on the device, for example, outside the display area, at an inactive location (eg, perimeter of device cover, top or bottom position (eg, 802, 812, 822 in FIGS. 8A-8C)) The In another embodiment, the light emitting layer 602 and the imaging component 704 (eg, or a combination of the light emitting layer 602 and the thin film image sensor 720) are within the boundaries of the touch-enabled screen region (eg, the display screen region (eg, FIG. 9C's 908, 913, 916) position) in / on the device. The location / position of the system described herein is not limited to any particular location in / on the device, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that it may be located elsewhere on the back or side of the device, for example. To do.

  In one embodiment, the image of the touch object (eg, fingerprint) and the data representing the touch object may be stored locally on the device and / or remotely on a remote (eg, cloud-based) server. May be. The stored data is also used for security and / or identification purposes so that, for example, only authorized users can access the part of the device service or the device. In addition, the image data is used, for example, to identify individuals used by security personnel and / or to register individuals in a database.

  In one aspect, a method for manufacturing a biometric sensor system is provided. Such systems interact with and / or touch a touch-sensitive computing device and / or information appliance (eg, a computer, laptop computer, smart device, mobile phone, tablet device, or touch-sensitive surface). Provides a biometric imaging device integrated into several other information devices that can receive input. As an example, this method is devised to build a system as described above in FIGS.

  FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method 1000 for manufacturing a biometric sensor system. The example method 1000 begins at 1002. At 1004, the electroluminescent layer is deposited on the top surface of the device cover glass or cover material at the desired location. By way of example, the formation of an electroluminescent layer may include one or more screen printing techniques (eg, printed circuit board (PCB) screen printing), chemical vapor deposition (CVD), chemical solvent deposition techniques, atomic layer deposition (ALD). , Sputtering, or any suitable thin film deposition technique. Further, in one embodiment, the electroluminescent layer is simply formed over the desired location (eg, home button area) or the area where biometric sensing is desired for the target device, or the entire portion of the cover glass. .

  At 1006 of the exemplary method 1000, a protective layer is formed on the top surface of the electroluminescent layer. Furthermore, a protective layer is formed on the remaining part of the device cover glass that is not covered by the electroluminescent layer. As described herein, the protective layer protects the top surface of the cover screen and the electroluminescent layer (eg, protecting from physical, chemical, optical and liquid ingress and / or damage). Including any suitable material constructed.

  At 1008, the imaging component is attached to a target device (eg, a touch-enabled device) where the electroluminescent layer is located, eg, when a cover glass is attached to the device. For example, the imaging component is mounted in the cover of the device under the position where the electroluminescent layer is attached. As a result, the light emitted by the electroluminescent layer is directed towards the imaging component. In addition, in one embodiment, an optical component (eg, an optical lens) is co-located and attached with, for example, an imaging component between the image sensor and the location of the electroluminescent component.

  At 1010 of the exemplary method 1000, a cover glass that includes an electroluminescent layer and a protective cover layer is attached to the device. As an example, the cover glass is mounted in a manner that properly aligns the imaging component and the electroluminescent layer such that light emitted by the electroluminescent layer impinges on the surface of the imaging component (eg, or optical lens). It is done. With the glass cover on the target device, the exemplary method 1000 ends at 1012.

  In another embodiment of a method of manufacturing a biometric sensor, an electroluminescent layer (eg, or piezoelectric light emitting layer) is formed on a thin film image sensor (eg, TFT 104 in FIGS. 3A and 3B). For example, instead of forming the electroluminescent layer directly on the device cover (eg, as at 1004 in FIG. 10), the electroluminescent layer is formed on the thin film image sensor. Also, the combination of the electroluminescent layer and the thin film sensor is formed on the surface of the device cover (eg, as at 1004 in FIG. 10).

  In this embodiment, a protective layer is formed on the top surface of the device cover (eg, cover glass) and the top of the electroluminescent layer (eg, as 1006 in FIG. 10). Further, the thin film image sensor is communicatively connected to a processor (for example, via a communication line such as a data bus or wireless communication) associated with the touch-enabled device. In addition, in one embodiment, since the thin film image sensor is used to capture data representing an image of at least a portion of the biometric object, the image capture component can be electroluminescent, such as 1008 in FIG. Not attached to the device at the sense location. In this embodiment, a device cover that includes a combination of an electroluminescent layer and a thin film image sensor, and a protective layer are attached to the target touch-enabled device (eg, 1010 in FIG. 10).

  FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method 1100 using a biometric sensor system. The exemplary method 1100 begins at 1102. At 1104, the user of the touch enabled device contacts the surface of the device at the location of the electroluminescent layer (e.g., 802, 812, 822, 832, FIGS. 8A-8D, 910, 913, 914 of FIGS. 9A-9C, 916). As an example, a user contacts a surface using one finger, two or more fingers, or a hand. At 1106, the electroluminescent layer emits photons toward the image capture component. For example, as described above, the electroluminescent layer converts charge (eg, or pressure) provided by the touch object into photons that represent the touch object.

  Also, as in one embodiment, the image capture component can be a device cover glass, such as APS, TFT, CMOS, CCD, CIS, or some other photosensor that can convert photons into electrical signals. Is placed in the device. In another embodiment, the image capture component can be placed as a thin film sensor (eg, TFT, etc.) under the electroluminescent layer and placed on a cover glass.

  In 1108 of the exemplary method 1100, the image capture component receives photons that represent a biometric object. That is, for example, photons emitted by the electroluminescent layer impinge on the photosensitive portion of the image sensor component. The photon shows an image of the object in contact with the device cover at the location of the electroluminescent layer. At 1110, the image capture component can convert photons into electrical signals as described above. At 1112, the electrical signal is converted into data representing an image representing at least a portion of the biometric object. That is, for example, the electrical signal can indicate the number and location of photons that collided with the imaging component. In this example, the number and location of photons indicated by the electrical signal is converted into image data representing an image of an object (eg, a fingerprint or a handprint) in contact with the surface.

  Once the electrical signal is converted into data representing an image of the biometric object, the example method 1100 ends at 1114.

  In another embodiment, one or more systems and techniques described herein are performed by a computer-based system. An exemplary computer system environment is shown in FIG. The following description of FIG. 12 provides a brief and general description of the computing environment. Therein, one or more embodiments of one or more methods and / or systems described herein are performed. The operating environment of FIG. 12 is merely one example of a suitable operating environment and does not imply limitations regarding the use of the operating environment or the scope of functionality. Exemplary computer devices include, but are not limited to, personal computers, server computers, handheld or laptop devices, mobile devices (cell phones, mobile consoles, tablets, media players, etc.), multiprocessor systems, consumer electronics, minicomputers, Mainframe computers, distributed computing environments including any of the above systems or devices, and the like.

  Although not required, embodiments are described in the general context of “computer-readable instructions” executed by one or more computing devices. The computer readable instructions are distributed by a computer readable medium (described below). Computer-readable instructions are executed as program modules (eg, functions, objects, application programming interfaces (APIs), data structures, etc.) that perform particular tasks or perform particular abstract data types. Typically, the functionality of computer readable instructions is combined or distributed as desired in various environments.

  FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a system 1200 that includes a computing device system 1202 configured to perform one or more embodiments provided herein. In one configuration, computing device 1202 includes at least one processing unit 1206 and memory 1208. Depending on the exact configuration and type of computing device, memory 1208 may be volatile (eg, RAM), non-volatile (eg, ROM, flash memory, etc.) or some combination of the two. This configuration is illustrated in FIG.

  In other embodiments, the device 1202 may comprise additional features and / or functions. For example, device 1202 may also include additional storage (eg, removable and / or non-removable). The additional device includes, but is not limited to, a magnetic storage device, an optical storage device, and the like. Such an additional storage device is shown as storage device 1210 in FIG. In one embodiment, computer readable instructions for performing one or more embodiments described herein may be provided in storage device 1210. Storage device 1210 may also store other computer-readable instructions for executing operating systems, application programs, and the like. Computer readable instructions may be loaded into memory 1208 for execution by, for example, processing (processor) unit 1206.

  The term “computer-readable medium” as used herein includes computer storage media. Computer storage media, including volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technique for storage of information (eg, computer readable instructions or other data) Media. Memory 1208 and storage device 1210 are examples of computer storage device media. Computer storage media include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disc (DVD) or other optical storage device, magnetic cassette, magnetic tape, magnetic A disk storage device or other magnetic storage device, or any other medium used to store desired information and accessed by device 1202 may be mentioned. Any such computer storage media may be part of device 1202.

  Device 1202 also includes a communication connection 1216 that allows communication between device 1202 and other devices. Communication connection 1216 is not particularly limited, but for connection to a modem, network interface card (NIC), integrated network interface, radio frequency transmitter / receiver, infrared port, USB connection or other device of computer device 1202. Other interfaces. Communication connection 1216 includes a wired connection (eg, a data bus) or a wireless connection (eg, wireless data communication). Communication connection 1216 may transmit and / or receive communication media.

  The term “computer-readable medium” includes communication media. Communication media typically may embody computer-readable instructions or other data in a “modulated data signal” (eg, a carrier wave or other transport mechanism) and includes any information delivery media. The term “modulated data signal” can include a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal.

  Device 1202 includes an input device 1204 (eg, keyboard, mouse, pen, voice input device, touch input device, infrared camera, video input device, and / or any other input device). An output device 1212 (eg, one or more displays, speakers, printers and / or any other output device) may be included in the device 1202. Input device 1214 and output device 1212 are connected to device 1202 via a wired connection, a wireless connection, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, an input device or output device from another computer device is used as the input device 1214 or output device 1212 for the computer device 1202.

  The components of computing device 1202 are connected by various interconnections (eg, buses). Examples of such interconnections include peripheral component interconnection (PCI) (for example, PCI Express), universal serial bus (USB), fire wire (IEEE 1394), and optical bus structure. In another embodiment, the components of computing device 1202 are interconnected by a network. For example, the memory 1208 is composed of a plurality of physical memory units arranged at different physical locations interconnected by a network.

  One skilled in the art will recognize that storage devices used to store computer readable instructions can be distributed over a network. For example, computing device 1220 accessible via network 1218 stores computer readable instructions for execution of one or more embodiments described herein. Computer device 1202 accesses computer device 1220 and downloads some or all of the computer readable instructions for execution. Alternatively, the computing device 1202 may download pieces of computer readable instructions as needed, or some instructions may be executed on the computing device 1202 and some instructions may be executed on the computing device 1220.

  As used herein, the term “exemplary” means illustrative as an example. Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as advantageous over other aspects or designs. That is, when the term “exemplary” is used, it is intended to specifically illustrate the concept. As used in this application, the term “or” is intended to be an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or”. That is, unless otherwise specified or apparent from the context, the expression “X uses A or B” means any natural inclusive substitution. That is, when X uses A, X uses B, or X uses both A and B, “X uses A or B” is satisfied in any of the above cases. Further, at least one of A and B and / or others generally means A or B or both A and B. In addition, the terms “a” and “an” as used in the present application and the appended claims refer to “one or more” unless otherwise specified or apparent from the context. It can be generally interpreted as meaning.

  Although the invention has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological operations, it will be understood that the invention as defined by the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or operations described above. Should. That is, the specific features or operations described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims. As used in this application, the term “one implementation” or “an implementation” refers to an embodiment that has at least one particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment. It is included in. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Of course, those skilled in the art will recognize many modifications may be made to this configuration without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed invention.

  Also, while the present disclosure has been shown and described with respect to one or more embodiments, those skilled in the art will envision equivalent changes and modifications with reference to the present specification and the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure includes all such modifications and changes and is limited only by the scope of the following claims. In particular, for the various functions performed by the above components (eg, elements, resources, etc.), the terms used to describe such components are structured into the disclosed structure that performs the functions in the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Unless otherwise specified, it is intended to correspond to any component that performs a specific function (eg, functionally equivalent) of the described component, unless otherwise specified.

  In addition, while certain features of the present disclosure have been disclosed for only one of several embodiments, such features may be desirable and advantageous for a particular application or a given particular application. May be combined with one or more other features of the embodiments. Further, such terms are used in the detailed description or in the claims to include the terms “includes”, “having”, “has”, “with” or such. To the extent the word is used, it is intended to be inclusive as well as “comprising”.

Claims (20)

A light emitting layer disposed on at least a portion of the touch screen layer of the touch enabled device and configured to emit photons toward the touch screen layer upon contact of the biometric object;
The portion of the touchscreen layer disposed below the light emitting layer and converting at least a portion of the emitted photons into data indicative of an image including a representation of at least a portion of the biometric object. A configured image capture component;
A biometric sensor system comprising:   The system of claim 1, wherein the emissive layer comprises an electroluminescent layer configured to emit the photons in response to charges received from the biometric object.   The system of claim 2, wherein the light emitting layer includes a dielectric layer disposed on the electroluminescent layer. The light emitting layer includes a shielding layer disposed on the electroluminescent layer,
The system of claim 2, wherein the shielding layer is configured to mitigate photon emission from an upper surface of the electroluminescent layer.   The system of claim 1, comprising a protective layer disposed on the light emitting layer.   The system of claim 1, wherein the touch screen layer includes a transparent electrode layer disposed on the substrate layer.   The system of claim 1, wherein the image capture component is disposed between the light emitting layer and the touch screen layer and includes a thin film image sensor. The image capture component is
An image processor configured to generate an image representing the biometric object from the data representing the image; and
A data processor configured to use the data representing the image to initiate a function on the device;
8. The system of claim 7, wherein the system is communicatively connected to one or both.   9. The system of claim 8, wherein the communication connection includes one of a wireless data transmission connection and a wired data bus connection. The image capture component is disposed below the touch screen;
The system of claim 1, wherein the touch screen layer is disposed between the light emitting layer and the image capture component.   The image capture component includes an optical component configured to direct at least a portion of the photons to an image sensor configured to capture the image including the representation of the at least a portion of the biometric object. The system of claim 10, comprising: A method of manufacturing a biometric sensor system, comprising:
Forming a light emitting layer on at least a portion of a touch screen layer configured to be attached to a touch enabled device;
The emissive layer is configured to emit light toward the touch screen layer upon contact of a biometric object;
At least a portion of the emitted light is received by an image sensor disposed on the portion of the touch screen layer;
The image sensor is configured to convert the at least a portion of the emitted light into data indicative of an image including a representation of at least a portion of the biometric object. A method of manufacturing a system. Forming the light emitting layer on the part of the touch screen layer,
Operatively connecting a thin film image sensor under the bottom surface of the light emitting layer;
Forming a combination of the thin film image sensor and the light emitting layer on the part of the touch screen layer,
The thin film image sensor comprises the image sensor configured to convert the at least a portion of the emitted light into the data indicative of the image including the representation of the at least a portion of the biometric object. The method of claim 12 comprising.   The method of claim 12, comprising attaching the image sensor to the touch-enabled device under the portion of the touch screen layer. Attaching an optical component to the image sensor;
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the optical component is configured to focus the emitted light into a desired configuration for use by the image sensor. Forming the emissive layer includes forming an electroluminescent layer configured to emit the photons in response to charges received from the biometric object;
The light emitting layer is
A dielectric layer disposed on the electroluminescent layer;
A shielding layer disposed on the electroluminescent layer and configured to reduce emission of photons from an upper surface of the light emitting layer;
A protective layer disposed on the light emitting layer;
13. The method of claim 12, comprising one or more of: Emitting light from the light emitting layer disposed on the touch enabled device toward the touch screen layer upon contact of a biometric object on the light emitting layer disposed on at least a portion of the touch screen layer;
Converting at least a portion of the emitted light into data indicative of an image including a representation of at least a portion of the biometric object using an image sensor disposed on the portion of the touchscreen layer; ,
A method of using a biometric sensor comprising:   The method of claim 17, comprising generating the image of the biometric object using an image processor.   The method of claim 17, comprising initiating a function of the device in response to a processor receiving the data representing the image.   18. The process of emitting light from the light emitting layer toward the touch screen layer includes emitting the photons in response to charges received from the biometric object that contacts the surface of the device. The method described.

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